The ninth UAE National MMA Championship begins this weekend in Dubai. Preparations are now complete for the event, which is scheduled to take place on July 11 and 12 at Shabab Al-Ahli Club.
More than 300 athletes representing top clubs and academies from across the country will gather for the tournament. The championship carries added significance as it takes place just weeks before the UAE National Team competes at the IMMAF Youth World Championships in August. This timing makes it a key opportunity to assess athletes’ technical, physical and mental readiness while raising the level of competition.
Mohammed Bin Dalmouj Al-Dhaheri, a board member at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, emphasized the strategic importance of the event. He noted the competition provides a high-level environment to assess readiness ahead of a major international milestone.
“The ninth edition of the championship comes at an important time, just weeks before the UAE National Team competes at the IMMAF Youth World Championships in August. It gives our athletes a valuable opportunity to compete at a high level and assess their readiness ahead of one of the biggest events of the year.”
“We are committed to providing a clear pathway for athlete development, from local competitions through to the international stage. This championship allows our technical staff to evaluate athletes’ performances, build their confidence and prepare them for the challenges of competing against the world's best.”
— Mohammed Bin Dalmouj Al-Dhaheri, Board Member, UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation
Saturday’s program will feature the Youth D (10-11 years), Youth C (12-13 years) and Youth B (14-15 years) divisions. Sunday’s competitions include the Youth A (16-17 years) and Adults (18 years and above) divisions. Al-Dhaheri added that the participation of more than 300 athletes reflected the continued growth of mixed martial arts across all age groups in the UAE. He reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to youth development as the foundation for building national teams capable of competing internationally and raising the UAE flag on the world stage.
Frequently asked questions
When is the UAE National MMA Championship 9 happening?
The ninth UAE National MMA Championship takes place on July 11 and 12 at Shabab Al-Ahli Club in Dubai.
How many athletes are competing in the championship?
Over 300 athletes from top UAE clubs and academies will compete in the event.
Why is this championship significant for the UAE?
It serves as a key preparatory event for the UAE National Team ahead of the IMMAF Youth World Championships in August.
What age groups are competing in the tournament?
The event includes Youth D (10-15 years), Youth A (16-17 years), and Adult (18+) divisions across two days.
Who organized the UAE National MMA Championship?
The championship is organized by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation to develop local talent for international competition.
